Shipley Church Self-Service

Sunday 19th July 2020

Thought for the Week – God is merciful, just and kind

The book Wisdom of Solomon is an ancient Jewish writing from the 1st century BC and is not recognised as scripture and therefore not included in the Bible. But it speaks of the character of God and describes him as “merciful, just and kind”. Psalm 85 asserts, “God is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness”. What might it mean for our church today to reflect God’s character in the world? St Paul, in his letter to the Romans, preaches that as God’s children we who follow him shall inherit his character of kindness and mercy, and eventually share in his glory and become a light and hope to the world. A high calling, indeed.

(Romans 8: 12-17)

A dear friend of mine living in London has an unusual prayer life and relationship with God. She chooses the simplicity of everyday situations to capture and reveal tender and loving spiritual conversations that she has with God. Kindness, she writes in her remarkable book, is like salt and enhances the flavour of life. It can even season the most difficult times with both hope and courage. Like salt, Kindness cleanses many wounds. Be kind and compassionate to one another. (Ephesians 4:32).

Hymn for the Day

 All my hope on God is founded;

He doth still my trust renew.

Me through change and chance he guideth,

Only good and only true.

God unknown, He alone

Calls my heart to be his own.

Prayers

We pray, “Let us with a gladsome mind praise the Lord, for he is kind; For his mercies shall endure, ever faithful, ever sure.” John Milton

The Gospel and Set Prayers for today can be downloaded from the top right corner of this page